A teacher from UNO High School quit his job before the school year started. He joined the many Filipinos who left family, friends and country to try his luck in another country. This phenomenon started way back in the late 70s or early 80s and shows no signs of abating in the new millenium. When I was a high school student one phrase that was drilled into our collective minds during Social Studies classes was 'BRAIN DRAIN."

Unlike Indiana Jones who embarks on his many adventures for "fame and glory", Filipinos embark on their odyssey for fortune alone. Such is the sad state of the Philippines. It cannot provide for its own citizens, that they had to seek solace and patronage from other countries. I have known of family, of friends who have likewise joined this exodus. Popular destinations to start a new life are the good ole U.S. of A. with Canada a resurging second.

I am staying put in the Philippines, for as long as possible. My husband and I agree on that. This is my home, where I grew up, where I learned to think, to work, to eat laing and drink beer. I may not like my home. My friend's home may be bigger, may be better furnished, may offer more avenues for relaxation, and have better security. I may enjoy my stay in his house when I come to visit. But at the end of the day, it is not my home. I can not call it my own, just because I liked staying in it. My home may be smaller, or darker, or have roaches under the sink, but it is mine. The Philippines will always be my home and my country.

I've given it a lot of thought. I have plenty of misgivings about the Philippines. If I have to make up a list of the things I hate about it, I'm sure the list will not just be a top ten list. But I have decided to come up with a list of the things that I LIKE about the country. And if I can come up with just 5 then I know I have made the right choice.

Both lists will be forthcoming.